Cypher Winery

Cypher cracks the code to create exceptional wines that reveal complexity and elegance.

  • About
  • Wines Produced
  • Press & Accolades
  • About
    Cypher Winery is focused on bringing together the art & science of high end winemaking, creating exceptional wines that reveal complexity and elegance with each sip. Every vintage of each wine is the result of a Cypher unveiled. Small, lot artisan wines are hand crafted from some of Paso's finest vineyards. Our focus is on Rhone varietals and some alternative Zin and Cab blends in the Cypher Anime series.

    Proprietor and winemaker Susan A. Mahler (AKA SAM) is focused on creating fruit forward wines that elegantly express varietal and the terroir from which they are grown. As a devoted gardener and cooking enthusiast, SAM loves taking people on a food and wine journey inspired by the season and garden. "My goal is to make people feel relaxed and inspired by their experience at Cypher, to surprise them with some interesting and unexpected pairings, and have hem remember their experience with a renewed connection and love for the great things we harvest from the Earth. Sharing my creations for the enjoyment of friends, family, members and visitors is the pinnacle of my journey".

    The tasting lounge is located just 3 blocks South of the square in downtown Paso at the historic train depot. Built in 1880, the Depot is an architectural gem with original wood floors, windows and loaded with charm. SAM designed a welcoming atmosphere at Cypher for guests to settle in, relax, and enjoy life in the “SLO Lane” with great wines and friendly, authentic hospitality.
  • Wines Produced
    Cabernet Sauvignon
    Dessert
    Grenache
    Marsanne
    Mourvèdre
    Petit Verdot
    Petite Sirah
    Port-Style
    Red Blend
    Red Rhône-Style Blend
    Rosé
    Roussanne
    Syrah
    Tannat
    Viognier
    White Rhône-Style Blend
    Zinfandel
  • Press & Accolades

    Press

    • Dec 2022 | Best red Rhone-style wines in Paso Robles for the holidays in 2022 
    • Aug 2022 | Cypher Winery brings home medals from OC Fair Wine Competition
    • Dec 2021 | Paso’s Garagiste Wine Festival Marks Tenth Anniversary
    • Jun 2021 | Days of Wine and Oysters in Paso Robles
    • Sep 2019 | Susan Mahler Cypher Winery 9/30
    • May 2019 | Paso Robles Wine: Cypher Winery
    • Apr 2019 | Cypher Winery Cracks the Code to Paso Robles Winemaking
    • Apr 2018 | Tasting Room Visit – Cypher Winery
    • Oct 2014 | Rebel Winemaker Sam Mahler on Shaking Up a Sleepy Industry
    • Mar 2014 | Local wines featured at Rock and Roll Hall of Fame
    • Oct 2012 | Paso Robles Wine Region: Kickass Rhône Blends
    • May 2011 | Michael Perlis discovers: Cypher Winery

    Accolades

    • 2017 Phoenix, 2022 OC Fair Commercial Wine Competition, Jul 2022, Double Gold
    • 2018 ZinPunk, 2022 OC Fair Commercial Wine Competition, Jul 2022, Gold
    • 2017 Slayer, 2022 OC Fair Commercial Wine Competition, Jul 2022, Gold
    • 2017 Fifth Element, 2022 OC Fair Commercial Wine Competition, Jul 2022, Gold
    • 2017 Theory Z, 2022 OC Fair Commercial Wine Competition, Jul 2022, Silver
    • 2017 Theory 3, 2022 OC Fair Commercial Wine Competition, Jul 2022, Silver